Fuerteventura property guide 2026

What you need to know in 2026 before buying, constructing, selling, or renting out a property in Fuerteventura?

The Lajares Law Offices Guide to buy, build, sell, or rent a property in Fuerteventura.

We are using Lajares Law Office’s experiences to update the initial guide for buying, selling, constructing, or renting a property in Fuerteventura.

Our goal is to guarantee our clients’ peace of mind when they buy, sell, construct, or rent out a property. We are committed to increasing legal certainty within the real estate market in Fuerteventura. We believe that by ensuring the legal system is followed, Fuerteventura will continue to grow as a premier destination.

With our extensive experience in the Fuerteventura property market, we effectively analyse and explain every specific situation to our clients. We are committed to guiding you step-by-step through each stage of buying, selling, renting, or constructing your property.

WE LAW FUERTEVENTURA, AND WE LAW YOU!

Summary

• What are the real estate trends for 2026?
  
• Buy a property in Fuerteventura
• Build a property in Fuerteventura
• Sell a property in Fuerteventura
• Rent a property in Fuerteventura
• Other question?

Buying a property

What to know before buying a property in Fuerteventura?

Typical mistakes foreign buyers make when buying property in Fuerteventura?

Many people visiting Fuerteventura dream of purchasing a property here. Whether motivated by investment opportunities or the desire for a vacation home, most are drawn to the island by its unique light, beaches, and peaceful atmosphere.

While some of our clients plan their purchase for years, others decide to move forward quickly after their first visit. Regardless of your timeline, it is important to be cautious. We have all heard stories of property dreams that ended in financial loss or legal complications due to illegal or unsafe constructions.

Our advice is to exercise the same due diligence you would in your home country. Be thorough: ask questions, verify all information, and do not proceed until you feel fully comfortable with every aspect of your purchase project.

Which are the specificities for buying a piece of land in Fuerteventura?

Buying a plot of land to build a dream home is one of the most compelling real estate opportunities in Fuerteventura. Over the last few years, we have seen a significant increase in clients searching for the perfect plot, and our goal is to provide the guidance necessary to make that dream a reality.

At Lajares Law Offices, we specialize in both Urban Planning Law and Property Law. By combining these fields of expertise, we ensure a safe and secure purchase process for our clients. 

It is important to understand that urban planning regulations are often more complex than the property transaction itself. We strongly advise consulting an expert and relying strictly on legal facts rather than informal assurances.

When purchasing land, obtaining an urbanistic certificate (Calificación Urbanística) from the local Town Hall is essential. This document details the building capacity, requirements, and regulations specific to the plot

Additionally, ensuring the plot has georeferenced measurements is vital. Georeferencing assigns exact geographic coordinates to your property’s perimeter. Registering this graphic description with the Land Registry Office secures your property boundaries within a recognized coordinate system. For more information on this topic, please visit our website and read our article: PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY! THE BENEFIT OF GEO-REFERENCING. – Lajares Law Offices

Which is the general process for buying a property in Fuerteventura?

From the outset, it is essential to take control of the transaction by choosing an experienced team of professionals to guide you. Before beginning, ensure you have a detailed budget in place.

Investing in property should not be left to chance. Prior to signing any private purchase agreement, you must perform thorough due diligence on the property.
Once the private purchase agreement is signed and the deposit is paid, your lawyer will prepare for the signing of the public deed of purchase and sale.

Overall, the process in Fuerteventura is like other European countries. However, one key difference is the role of the notary; payments are typically made directly to the seller rather than into a notary’s escrow account.

Please be aware that signing the deed is not the final step. You must also ensure that property transfer taxes or stamp duties are paid and that the deed is officially registered with the Property Registry (“Registro de la Propiedad”).

What are the Pitfalls for buying property in Fuerteventura?

LAJARES LAW OFFICES believes in LAW as the only valid guide. We have heard a lot of absurd comments as “we know a friend who, not being a professional, may help us” “it hasn’t an official permission, but it is ok you know, it is Spain” “ it doesn’t have to be registered, it is legal under a private contract” “ you can start building the house before the building licence is granted” “you do not need a lawyer for doing this…” “after the sale we will check if the expected use is suitable”.

Well, investing in a property cannot be treated as a gamble.. To assure the result and to receive the valid answers we must ask the proper questions and to receive the right professional advice.

Which budget do I have to consider for completing the purchase of a property in Fuerteventura?

When purchasing a property in Fuerteventura, it is essential to have a clear understanding of all related expenses before making a formal decision. We recommend asking your lawyer for a detailed budget at the very beginning of the process.

A comprehensive package of legal, administrative, and fiscal services typically represents approximately 1% of the purchase price, subject to a minimum fee per transaction.

In addition to these fees, you must account for the following taxes and costs:
– Property Transfer Tax: 6.5% of the purchase price for resale properties.
– Stamp Duty: 1% of the purchase price for new constructions purchased directly from a developer.
– Notary and Land Registry Fees: These are also the responsibility of the buyer.

Generally, you should budget between 8% and 10% on top of the purchase price to cover all fees and taxes. However, if you are purchasing with a Spanish mortgage, additional costs will apply; in this case, we advise calculating 11% to 13% of the purchase price as a total budget indication.

Is it worth buying a property in Fuerteventura?

When deciding to buy, invest, or live in Fuerteventura, decisions are often driven by passion and intuition rather than logic. The island, particularly the north, offers many reasons to be passionate: endless beaches, an ideal climate, a secure environment, and an international atmosphere that retains its Canarian essence. We further explore these benefits in our blog post 10+1 Reasons to buy Real Estate in Fuerteventura – Lajares Law Offices

Is buying a property in Fuerteventura a good investment?

As previously mentioned, the current market conditions are favourable. Beyond pricing, a significant advantage of investing here is our twelve-month tourism season. Unlike the rest of Spain, where the rental season typically lasts only four to five months, the Canary Islands experience their peak season during the winter. Our exceptional climate and location, makes Fuerteventura a compelling choice for investors. Read our blog post https://www.lajareslawoffices.com/invest-in-fuerteventura-where-smart-capital-meets-island-calm/

What is the best location for buying a property in Fuerteventura?

While we appreciate the unique charm of the entire island, our team is particularly fond of the North. As we highlight in our blog post https://www.lajareslawoffices.com/welcome-to-the-north-of-fuerteventura-we-love-this-place/

The north of Fuerteventura offers a vibrant blend of nautical sports, a modern lifestyle, and an active social scene for both locals and expats, all within a relaxing atmosphere.

The Central area of the island provides a more tranquil way of life, featuring professional golf courses and calm beaches. Alternatively, the South is ideal for those looking to enjoy spectacular natural scenery and expansive, endless beaches.

We recommend visiting the island to experience these different environments firsthand. We are confident that by exploring the local culture and landscapes, you will find the perfect place to call home.

Is the process for a buying property in Fuerteventura different when I am a non-European Citizen?

While non-European citizens may not always be granted the same rights as EU citizens, this should not be a limitation with proper legal assistance. The conveyancing process, including all related costs and taxes, remains identical regardless of your citizenship.

However, an important distinction is determining whether a “Military Permit” is required from the Spanish Ministry of Defense. If you purchase property classified as “Rural Land”, you must obtain military authorization prior to signing the public deed of purchase and sale. The timeline for obtaining this permit depends on the surface area of the land and can take between 3 to 6 months.

It is essential that your lawyer evaluates this requirement before you formally agree to a closing schedule with the seller.

Read more about this subject in our blog post https://www.lajareslawoffices.com/buying-property-in-fuerteventura-military-permit-for-non-european-citizens/

What are the main elements you should check before buying a property in Fuerteventura? 

It is essential to consult an expert to verify the legal, administrative, and fiscal status of a property before signing any contracts or paying a deposit.

A through Due Diligence process should include verifying the following:

– Ownership: Who is the legal owner with the right to sell? If the owner is a company, who is the authorized director, and is the company’s fiscal registration number active?

– Encumbrances: Are there any debts, pending mortgages, or court claims against the property?

– Occupancy: Are there currently any tenants or occupants?

– Regulations: Is the property subject to special rules, such as subsidized housing status, planning restrictions, or specific land-use permissions?

– Registration: Is the property correctly recorded in the Land Registry?

– Consistency: Are there discrepancies between the surface area recorded in the Cadastre and the Land Registry?

– Is the property affected by the Coastal Law (Ley de Costas)? It is important to know that properties near the Sea may have coastal easements, building restrictions or even public domain limitations.

A comprehensive review by a lawyer of the property titles, Tax Office records, Land Registry data, and other relevant databases is a vital step in the purchasing process

Typical mistakes foreign buyers make when buying property in Fuerteventura?

– purchasing land without exploring the construction regulations.

– assuming that VV rental activities are allowed.

– ignoring community rules.

– trusting informal (non professional) advice.

At LAJARES LAW OFFICES we protect your investment

BUILDING A PROPERTY

What do I need to know before building a property in Fuerteventura?

Building a property in Fuerteventura can be as complex as in your home country. However, being abroad and potentially facing a language barrier makes it essential to follow specific checkpoints to protect your investment.

Is my land suitable for building?

When purchasing a plot, this is the most critical check. Constructing on a non-regulated plot without a valid building permit risks the loss of your investment, the demolition of the property, and significant fines.

It is important to understand that different types of land—such as urban or rustic—are subject to different urban planning regulations that must be carefully considered before you begin.

How to choose the architect?

You should hire an architect capable of preparing a “Proyecto Básico” that fulfils all local planning requirements. In Fuerteventura, there are many experienced architects who can communicate in your language.

To make the best choice, we recommend the following steps:

– Request quotes from several candidates.

– Schedule meetings to gather detailed information and determine who you feel most comfortable working with.

– Seek recommendations from friends who have had similar experiences.

It is essential to remember that your architect does more than just design your home; they are responsible for supervising the entire construction process. They must effectively manage builders, technicians, and other parties involved in the project. Because they oversee the project from start to finish, maintaining a good professional relationship with your architect is a must.

At which point do I apply for the building permit?

Regarding your inquiry about when to apply for a building permit, you must apply for the building license (“licencia de obra y construcción”) once the Basic Project has been validated. You must then wait for the local Town Hall to grant the license before beginning construction.

Please be advised that you should not start building a house without a valid permit. Doing so can lead to significant issues with the authorities. Furthermore, in the event of an accident during unauthorized construction, your liability could result in a criminal offense.

Note that some preparatory works, such as land movement or utility connections, may be authorized before the full license is granted.

Is it hard to get a building permit in Fuerteventura?

It is not hard if you do things properly and you get the help of a good architect, but it will take some time. Despite the efforts being made by the local Town Halls, consider between 6-12 months to obtain a building permit. This delay can be longer depending on the municipality and the complexity of the project.

What is an execution project?

Once you obtain the building license, your architect will prepare the Execution Project. This document provides all construction details with greater accuracy and serves as the definitive guide that the construction company must follow.

How to prepare the budget of the construction works?

When preparing the budget for construction works, it is essential that the building company provides a detailed quote. We recommend contacting several companies to obtain multiple quotations for comparison.

The building company will use the Execution Project as a guide to prepare the budget; the more detailed the Execution Project is, the more accurate the quotation will be. You should avoid general or poorly defined quotes and ensure that all specific items of the building project are included.

Regarding legal preparation, it is crucial to seek legal advice before taking any steps. The building license application and the contracts for the building company, architect, and other contractors must be rigorous to protect your rights. Having expert legal counsel throughout the process will also provide peace of mind should any conflicts or incidents arise during construction.

Finally, ensure you sign a comprehensive contract with your chosen construction company. Please consult your lawyer for specific advice on these agreements.

Who will direct the construction works?

The direction of the building works will be assumed by your architect, the “Director de la obra.” This means that without their consent, the builder will not be entitled to receive partial payments.

In Spain, an additional technical supervisor known as the “Aparejador” (Technical Architect) is also required. They will inspect the works and report all incidents to the main Architect. While working with a reliable building company is important, ensuring you have a skilled architect supervising the project is essential.

Regarding the documents required upon the finalization of construction works:

Once the building works are finished and the completed project is confirmed, the architect will sign the “Certificado Final de Obra” (Final Work Certificate). This document confirms the complete execution of the works according to the original project.

Please be aware that you cannot occupy the property until you have applied for the “Licencia de Primera Ocupación” (First Occupation License) with the local town hall. This certificate is necessary to use the property and to connect the utility services.

How to declare my construction in terms of law?

Once your construction project is finalized, it is essential to legally declare the new building. To do this, you must sign a public deed of finalized construction, known as “Obra Nueva Terminada,” before a notary in Fuerteventura.
Several documents are required to sign this notarial deed. Your lawyer will assist you in preparing all the necessary paperwork.

After the deed has been signed, it must be presented to the Tax Office to pay the applicable taxes based on the building’s value. Finally, the deed and proof of tax payment must be submitted to the Land Registry Office to register the house.

Once these steps are complete, your home is officially recognized by law. You will be the registered owner of a piece of land with a fully legal construction on it!

How much does it cost to build a house in Fuerteventura?

Regarding the cost of building a house in Fuerteventura, the total investment depends significantly on the specific design, the quality of materials, and the total surface area.

I recommend requesting detailed quotations from several construction companies. Your architect will also be a key point of contact throughout the process and can provide valuable guidance on pricing.

Please keep in mind that the total cost includes more than just the construction of the house itself. You must also account for urbanization works, landscaping, taxes, and licensing fees. Requesting a comprehensive budget for all these elements will help you avoid unexpected expenses.

What is the estimated delay for constructing a house in Fuerteventura?

If it is a single-family house, after the licence is granted, 12-18 months will be an acceptable period if there are no big incidents.

How to build a house in Fuerteventura without being in Fuerteventura?

Building a house in Fuerteventura while you are abroad is entirely possible with the right local support. You can rely on your architect to provide progress reports or hire a project manager to act as your representative on-site.

At Lajares Law Office, we are prepared to supervise the legal side of the building process and provide regular updates in your language. We maintain a network of experienced architects and reliable construction companies to ensure your project is handled by professionals. As experts in property and construction law, we will ensure your interests are legally protected throughout the entire process.

Please let us know if you would like to discuss how we can help build your dream home.

SELLING A PROPERTY

What must I know before selling my property in Fuerteventura?

Whether you are leaving the island or moving to a new home, selling your property is a significant step. Below are several key tips to help you navigate the process.

Selling Options:

You may choose to list your property independently or hire the services of a professional real estate agent.

Buyer Due Diligence:

During a sale, the buyer is responsible for conducting various checks to ensure the purchase is sound. However, as the seller, you are obligated to provide all necessary documentation, including a valid title, recent tax payment receipts, and utility contracts.

The Deposit and Private Contract:

Once the buyer completes their due diligence, both parties sign a private contract or deposit agreement. At this stage, a deposit (typically 5% to 10% of the sale price) is paid to secure the commitment of both parties and establish a closing date.

Contractual Obligations:

Please be aware of the penalties for withdrawing from the agreement:

– If the buyer pulls out, they forfeit their deposit.

– If you, as the seller, renege on the commitment, you may be legally required to pay the buyer double the deposit amount as compensation.

The Closing:

The transaction concludes at a notary office. Here, the final balance is paid, and ownership of the property is officially transferred to the buyer.

What is the correct way to sell a property in Fuerteventura?

Once your property is on the market, you can expect offers involving price negotiations or various payment terms. If you prefer a fast sale, a cash buyer is the most desirable option. Buyers requiring financing may delay the closing process by several months.

Upon accepting an offer, the main terms of the agreement are formalized in a private document. Generally, the seller is obligated to ensure the property is free of all charges, mortgages, taxes, and other encumbrances.

We frequently encounter titles with defects that must be resolved before a sale. For example, discrepancies between the surface area shown on the title and the land registry must be corrected prior to signing the public deed. Other common issues include unrecorded swimming pools or building extensions that have not been legalized.

Additionally, other minor legal defects must be addressed by the seller to ensure a valid transaction, unless the buyer explicitly accepts these issues in the private purchase agreement.

If the property has a pending mortgage, your lawyer should arrange for a bank representative to be present at the Notary for the completion. The representative will sign the mortgage cancellation upon receiving the outstanding debt. In these instances, the buyer typically issues two bank drafts: one to the bank to clear the debt and the remainder to you.

Which costs do I need to consider when selling my property?

When selling your property, there are several costs you should consider. As the seller, you can typically expect to pay the following:

– Real estate agency commission: Generally, between 3% and 5%.

– Energy performance certificate: Usually costs between €150 and €250.

– Capital gains tax: Applicable if the property is sold for a higher value than the original purchase price (see details below).

– Municipal capital gain taxes: (See details below).

What are Capital Gains Taxes?

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax on the profit realized from the sale of a property, calculated as the difference between the sale price and the original purchase price. Relevant costs, such as estate agent fees, may be deducted before the tax is calculated. Additionally, an annual allowance determined by the tax office may apply.

The CGT rate currently ranges between 19% and 23%, depending on the total gain. While certain exemptions may apply, we recommend seeking professional financial advice to confirm your specific situation.

As a non-resident, the buyer is required to retain 3% of the purchase price. This amount is deposited with the Tax Authorities as a provision toward your potential Capital Gains Tax. Once the final tax liability is calculated, this 3% is applied toward the balance. If the actual tax due exceeds the retained amount, you will be responsible for the difference; if the tax due is less than the retention, you are entitled to apply for a refund.

What is Plusvalía or Municipal Capital Gain Taxes?

Plusvalía is a local municipal tax calculated based on the rateable (cadastral) value of the land and the number of years the property was held.

While the seller is legally liable for paying this tax, if the seller is a non-resident, the buyer will typically deduct this amount from the purchase price. This is because, by law, the buyer becomes responsible for the payment if a non-resident seller fails to fulfil the obligation. This tax is generally a relatively modest amount, often totalling a few hundred euros.

Are the tax obligations different for non-residents?

Regarding tax obligations for non-residents, please be advised that if you are not an official resident of Spain, the buyer is required to withhold 3% of the purchase price and forward it to the tax authorities upon completion of the sale.

This 3% retention will be offset against any capital gains tax you owe. Any remaining balance must be paid within 30 days of the sale. Alternatively, you may apply for a refund where appropriate. Please note that if you have not filed annual tax returns during your period of ownership, obtaining a refund may be difficult.

RENTING OUT A PROPERTY

What do I need to know before renting out my property in Fuerteventura?

After purchasing a property in Fuerteventura, you may decide to rent it out. With year-round sunshine and high demand, this can be a great opportunity.

However, it is essential to ensure you are properly prepared before you begin. Non-compliance with government regulations or tenant issues can lead to significant complications.

We recommend seeking legal and fiscal advice to ensure you meet all local requirements. Before starting any rental activity, please consider the following:

– Do you have a professional rental lease agreement in place?

– Are you aware of the local rental regulations?

– Do you know which taxes apply to your rental income and how much you are required to pay?

Please let us know if you would like assistance in navigating these requirements.

Different types of rental agreements?

In the Canary Islands, rental agreements are primarily categorized into three types based on the duration of stay and the purpose of the rental, as regulated by the Spanish Urban Leasing Act (LAU) and regional tourism laws updated for 2026.

1. Long-Term Residential Lease (Vivienda)

This is for tenants using the property as their permanent primary residence.

Duration: Typically signed for one year, but by law, the tenant has the right to extend it annually for up to 5 years (if the landlord is an individual) or 7 years (if the landlord is a company).

Key Feature: Offers the highest level of legal protection for tenants regarding rent caps and eviction processes.

2. Seasonal or Mid-Term Lease (Temporada)

This contract is used for stays that have a specific, non-permanent as well as non-touristic purpose, such as work assignments, studies, etc.

Duration: Usually between 3 and 11 months.

Key Feature: The contract must explicitly state the reason for the temporary nature of the stay (e.g., a specific work contract) to avoid being legally reclassified as a long-term residential lease.

3. Holiday or Tourist Rental (Vivienda Vacacional)

Short term rentals, marketed for tourism purposes through rental platforms or agencies.

Duration: Generally, stays of less than 3 months.

Legal Requirement: Owners must hold a VV License (Vivienda Vacacional) and the property must meet specific standards (e.g., signage, complaint forms). As of 2026, new regulations have introduced stricter zoning limits and community approval requirements for these rentals.

Highlights of the Law 6/2025 on the Sustainable Management of Tourist Use of Homes in Canary Islands.

Law 6/2025, enacted on December 10, 2025, now regulates the tourist use of residential dwellings (viviendas de uso turístico or holiday rentals) in the Canary Islands. This legislation prioritizes access to habitual housing by clearly distinguishing tourist use, defined as commercial and temporary, from residential use, which is stable and permanent.

To combat housing shortages, speculation, and overtourism, the law restricts new holiday rentals in residential areas. Furthermore, stricter regulations are applied to high-pressure islands—Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura—compared to El Hierro, La Gomera, and La Palma.

Key updates regarding the new holiday rental legislation:

– 10% Limitation on Properties: The new law stipulates a 10% limit for holiday homes, unless municipal planning justifies a different proportion.

– Ten-Year Waiting Period: Properties may not be used for holiday rentals until ten years after their construction is completed.

– Prohibition for Social Housing: It is expressly prohibited for social housing (VPO) to be used for tourist purposes.

– Increased Authority for Local Councils: Each municipality has its own specific requirements. Local councils are now responsible for designating which areas are suitable for new holiday homes.

– Renewal of Affidavits: Licenses will be valid for a five-year period. They may be renewed if regulations are met and the municipality continues to allow tourist use in that specific area.

– Sustainability and Quality Requirements: All holiday homes must meet updated basic requirements for safety, quality, sustainability, and access.

How does the new law affect existing holiday homes?

Existing holiday rentals may generally continue operating, provided the remain compliant with the new legal and planning requirements and successfully renew their registration when required
However, please be aware that under the new rules, you will no longer be able to transfer a VV license to another person, such as in the event of a property sale.

Restrictions on holiday rental activities by homeowners’ associations

Rental restrictions in homeowners’ associations in Spain are primarily governed by the Horizontal Property Act (LPH), which has recently undergone amendments (notably the update of April 2025) to give homeowners’ associations greater control over the use of properties.

Holiday Rentals (Amendments 2025): In accordance with the new Final Provision 1 of Law 1/2025 (effective from 3 April 2025), owners’ associations may restrict or prohibit holiday rentals without the need to amend their articles of association. To do so, a favourable vote is required from three-fifths (3/5) of the owners, who in turn represent 3/5 of the ownership shares.

Which are the tax implications of renting out my holiday home?

As a non-fiscal resident in Spain, you are required to submit (quarterly) tax returns to declare the profits from your rental business. The applicable tax rate currently ranges between 19% and 24%.

Do you have any further questions regarding properties in Fuerteventura?

Please let us know your requirements, and we will contact you as soon as possible. The better we understand your needs, the more effectively we can assist you.

Lajares Law Offices

Mobile: +34 679 177 042

Phone: +34 928 861 542

Email: info@lajareslawoffices.com

Website: www.lajareslawoffices.com

All you need is LAW.